Veterans Day, 2005
A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

Americans owe a great debt of gratitude to those who have sacrificed for
our liberty and for the security of our Nation. We express deep
appreciation to our veterans -- the men and women who stepped forward when
America needed them, triumphed over brutal enemies, liberated continents,
and answered the prayers of millions around the globe.

From the beaches of Normandy and the snows of Korea to the mountains of
Afghanistan and the deserts of Iraq, our courageous veterans have
sacrificed so that Americans and others could live in freedom. As we mark
the 60th anniversary of the end of World War II this year, we remember the
millions of veterans who crossed oceans and defeated two of the most
ruthless military forces the world has ever known. The freedom that the
children and grandchildren of these veterans now enjoy is a monument to
their fallen comrades and the generations of patriots who have served our
country.

Through their commitment to freedom, America's veterans have lifted
millions of lives and made our country and the world more secure. They
have demonstrated to us that freedom is the mightiest force on Earth. We
resolve that their sacrifices will always be remembered by a grateful
Nation.

With respect for and in recognition of the contributions our service men
and women have made to the cause of peace and freedom around the world, the
Congress has provided (5 U.S.C. 6103(a)) that November 11 of each year
shall be set aside as a legal public holiday to honor veterans.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, do hereby proclaim November 11, 2005, as Veterans Day and urge all
Americans to observe November 6 through November 12, 2005, as National
Veterans Awareness Week. I urge all Americans to recognize the valor and
sacrifice of our veterans through ceremonies and prayers. I call upon
Federal, State, and local officials to display the flag of the United
States and to encourage and participate in patriotic activities in their
communities. I invite civic and fraternal organizations, places of
worship, schools, businesses, unions, and the media to support this
national observance with commemorative expressions and programs.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this second day of
November, in the year of our Lord two thousand five, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirtieth.